Therapies
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which originated in China over 2,000 years ago. It involves the use of fine, sterile, single-use needles which are gently inserted into specific locations on the body to produce a therapeutic effect. The traditional basis of acupuncture is to restore homeostasis or balance in the body by stimulating the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) and Blood through the acupuncture channels.
Each acupuncture point is carefully selected based on the Chinese Medicine diagnosis and your individual symptoms. A typical acupuncture session can last 30–45 minutes, ensuring that you remain comfortable and relaxed for the duration of your treatment.
Upon insertion of the needles, patients may report feelings of warmth, buzzing, referral into other areas of the body, or a momentary dull-heavy sensation. However, many patients report that they do not feel anything other than a deep sense of relaxation.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine involves drinking a tea comprising 3–15 Chinese herbs, which work together synergistically to support the body’s natural internal balance.
Similar to acupuncture, Chinese herbal prescriptions are formulated following careful assessment of the patient’s individual symptoms, pulse, tongue, and/or abdominal diagnosis. A detailed intake of lifestyle factors is also conducted to guide additional dietary and lifestyle recommendations. These considerations are important in supporting longer-term health and reducing the recurrence of symptoms.
All Chinese herbs used in the clinic are routinely tested for quality and safety, including screening for heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, yeasts, moulds, and other microbial contaminants.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy involves the application of sterile glass cups to the body through a gentle suctioning effect. Cupping is commonly incorporated into acupuncture treatments to support patients with muscle recovery or symptoms of chronic pain, tension, and stiffness. It is often used over larger areas of the body, such as the shoulders, arms, back, or legs.
According to the principles of Chinese Medicine, cupping works by drawing blood and Qi into the applied area through its suctioning action. The focus is to enhance local circulation within the muscles and tissues, and to disperse stagnant Blood (“Blood Stasis”), which is traditionally viewed as a contributing factor to both acute and chronic pain. Beyond musculoskeletal applications, cupping is also commonly used within Chinese Medicine when an individual is presenting with flu or cold symptoms.
It’s not uncommon for cupping to leave visible bruise-like marks on the skin. These marks are a normal and well-observed response to treatment, and usually resolve completely within 7–10 days. They are typically not tender or painful to touch.
Supplementation and nutrition
Nutrition and supplementation are integral components of the clinic’s integrative approach to health and wellness. Dietary recommendations and evidence-based nutritional strategies are used to address specific health concerns and support overall wellbeing.
For example, in cases of gut health concerns, this may include focusing on foods which are gentle on digestion and promote a healthy microbiome. In fertility focused settings, nutrient-rich foods are emphasised to support reproductive health and hormonal balance.
For individuals experiencing mood or sleep disturbances, nutrition strategies are designed to gently support the nervous system. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients benefit from a well-rounded plan to address their unique health needs, while supporting the body’s natural ability to thrive.
Chinese Medicine Dietary &
Lifestyle advice
In Chinese Medicine, the concept of Yang Sheng, meaning “nourishing life,” emphasises the preservation and cultivation of one’s vital energy. The goal of Yang Sheng is to maintain balance between the mind and body through practices such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, mindfulness, and living in harmony with the rhythms of nature.
During a Chinese Medicine consultation, your practitioner will often explore various aspects of your diet and lifestyle. After thoroughly assessing your unique health needs, they will offer personalised lifestyle recommendations for you to incorporate into your daily routine.
These suggestions may include dietary guidance based on your body constitution, healthy eating habits, gentle exercises such as Tai Chi or Qigong, yoga, sleep hygiene practices, stress management techniques, and mindfulness or meditation.
What to expect during your initial consultation & treatment?
Your initial consultation includes a comprehensive intake form and health questionnaire, which is completed prior to attending your appointment. This assists Fraser in understanding your main health concerns and beginning to formulate your treatment plan.
During your initial consultation, Fraser will review your main symptoms of concern, relevant medical history, current supplements and medications, and enquire into various areas of your health, which may include sleep, work, lifestyle, and life stressors. Following the intake process, Fraser will spend time taking your pulse and asking clarifying questions. Abdominal palpation and tongue diagnosis may also be incorporated. These are specific diagnostic methods used in Chinese Medicine to refine the diagnosis and guide the individualised treatment plan.
Some patients may only require acupuncture, while others maybe prescribed a Chinese herbal formula, or a combination of the two. This is dependent on the areas of focus and Fraser’s treatment recommendations. Fraser will then explain your acupuncture or herbal medicine treatment plan and outline the recommended course of care.
If receiving acupuncture, you can expect the treatment to last approximately 30-45 minutes. Fraser will periodically check in with you throughout the session to ensure that you are comfortable and relaxed. At the conclusion of the treatment, Fraser will schedule a follow-up appointment and provide any relevant dietary or lifestyle advice, along with instructions if a Chinese herbal formula has been prescribed.